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Choosing a city backpack is relatively easy. Just pick one that matches your style, probably in black, and you never even have to think of the words frame, yoke, compression or suspension.
Your camping or backcountry backpack (or in gear-nerd speak: your pack) is an entirely different beast. For seasoned outdoorspeople, no price is too high for the perfect pack, some going as far as ordering custom jobs from makers like Dan McHale. For greener campers, the price can stymie your interest in reconnecting with nature.
Wherever you fall on the spectrum, though, Backcountry’s semi-annual sale probably has an option that’ll fit your needs, as packs of all shapes and sizes are up to 50% off right now.
To help those of you looking for large-format packs — whether you’re heading out on a multi-day trip, packing heavy for colder weekend expeditions or simply in charge of carrying all your kids’ gear — we’ve picked three of the best below. All from top-notch brands, well reviewed and at least $120 off.
Big: Granite Gear Nimbus Trace Access 60L Backpack, $181 off
Also available in a short 54L version, this Granite Gear pack is a slightly smaller version of the one that took home an Outside Magazine Gear of the Year award.
Bigger: Mystery Ranch Glacier 70L Backpack, $140 off
Despite weighing in the heaviest of the three by a couple ounces, the Glacier’s Mountain Frame will take the pressure (pun intended) off of heavy loads, and the adjustable yoke will keep you hiking comfortably.
Biggest: The North Face Fovero 85L Backpack, $122 off
Christened both the Backpackers Cadillac and Backpackers U-Haul by two separate reviewers, the Fovero not only holds up to 70 pounds of gear, but keeps it expertly partitioned as well. There’s the five-direction compression system, dedicated sleeping bag compartment, beaver-tail pocket for wet items and much more.
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